A living will in Haddon Heights, New Jersey is sometimes called a "healthcare directive" or something similar. But whatever you call it, it's a legally-binding document which provides instructions for your family members as well as you doctors on how you want end-of-life medical care to be handled. It lets them know in advance what you want.

This can be very helpful in avoiding disputes between family members who otherwise might not know what your wishes on this subject are.

For example, some people wish to be taken off of life support if they are in a permanent vegetative state, and their doctors believe that they have little to no chance of a meaningful recovery. However, if this wish is not expressed in advance, it may be impossible to implement in the unfortunate event that it becomes relevant.

If a person's preferences aren't known by his or her family, they might have to make an educated guess. Of course, with limited information, it's totally possible for 2 family members to come to two totally different conclusions, with no way of knowing which one is correct. Making your wishes known in advance can help you avoid all this.

How to Create A Living Will in Haddon Heights, New Jersey

Of course, your loved ones should be involved in the process. They can't make these decisions for you, but they'll probably be more willing to accept your decisions if they feel that their voices were heard. In any event, if your family knows what to expect when your living will is implemented, the process will probably be easier.

Now comes the part where you actually draft the living will. The process is likely to go much more smoothly if you enlist the help of an accomplished attorney in Haddon Heights, New Jersey who is experienced in drafting documents like this.

In most states, the requirements for holding a living will to be valid are the same as those required for an ordinary will, at least with respect to the formalities that must be followed.

These formalities vary from state to state, but wills usually have to be witnessed and signed by at least two people who do not have a direct interest in the matter. Also, they should contain a clear statement indicating that the document is, in fact, a living will.

Do I Need A Haddon Heights, New Jersey Living Will Attorney?

While it's not strictly required, it can be very helpful to have the counsel of an experienced Haddon Heights, New Jersey attorney. A good lawyer will help you navigate the local laws on this subject, making it much easier for your wishes to be implemented.